News
Trust in politics ‘perilously low’ after donations scandal

CAMPAIGNERS called for greater openness, warning trust in politics is perilously low following controversy surrounding donations to the former first minister’s leadership bid.
Transparency International, a nonprofit organisation aimed at combating corruption, told Wales’ public accounts committee that polls show most people think politicians are “out for themselves”.
The charity raised concerns about donations to Vaughan Gething’s campaign, transparency on informal WhatsApp use during the pandemic, and leaks to the press.
Mr Gething declared the £200,000, from a convicted polluter, in line with rules on donations.
In evidence to the committee, Transparency International said: “Recent events in Wales … have brought into question the adequacy of current checks to protect integrity in high office.
“Presently, the first minister of the day produces a code of conduct outlining the standards expected of their colleagues, which they alone have the ability to enforce.”
Mark Isherwood, who chairs the committee, raised concerns about the Welsh Government refusing to publish its “cabinet handbook” in response to a request from Nation.Cymru.
Unlike the UK Government’s public cabinet manual, which sets out rules for the operation of government, the Welsh Government’s equivalent document remains a guarded secret.
Andrew Goodall, the Welsh Government’s permanent secretary, told the October 2 meeting that the two documents serve different purposes despite similarity in the labels.
Dr Goodall said the handbook collates internal-facing support for Welsh ministers and includes details of security arrangements which would not be appropriate to publish.
Wales’ most senior civil servant argued the UK manual was designed to be outward facing.
Dr Goodall explained the Welsh Government will produce a version of its handbook that is suitable to put into the public domain by the end of the year.
The former NHS Wales boss said: “I would like to be open – certainly with the committee – about areas or topics that we have chosen to exclude.”
Mr Isherwood replied: “Non-disclosure generates concerns that may not be merited and I’d suggest it’s in everyone’s interests for this to be fully in the public domain provided it doesn’t create risks for individuals in terms of security, for example.”
In his response to the committee’s consultation, Pedr ap Llwyd, the former chief executive of the National Library of Wales, stressed the importance of government transparency.
He wrote: “A balance must be struck between confidentiality on sensitive government matters and the public’s right to know how government operations are managed.”
Prof ap Llwyd urged the Welsh Government to do more to assure the public that robust mechanisms are in place to handle leaks fairly and thoroughly.
Dr Goodall said Wales follows unauthorised disclosure guidance overseen by the UK Government, “so we’re unable to release that information ourselves into the public”.
Pressed about the ministerial code, which sets standards for ministers, he said it is up to the first minister to decide how complaints are handled or ask for an independent adviser.
In its evidence, the Institute for Government joined Transparency International in calling for the code to be put in law to bring it in line with rules for the conduct of civil servants.
The independent think tank argued this would reaffirm the principle that ministers are as accountable for their behaviour as those who serve them.
Helen Foster, of the department of accounting, finance and economics at Ulster University’s business school, warned of a weakness in the ministerial code.
Dr Foster said the decision to instigate an investigation remains with the first minister, calling for legislative change to rectify the “defect” that limits accountability.
Labour’s Mike Hedges warned the system does not work, saying: “I know at least one former minister who feels really aggrieved with the actions of certain civil servants.”
The Tories’ Natasha Asghar asked whether David Richards, director of propriety and ethics, was acting as an independent adviser when investigating Dawn Bowden, then-arts minister.
Dr Goodall said Mr Richards, who was unable to appear before the committee for personal reasons, was not technically acting as an independent investigator under the code.
He said the first minister has discretion to appoint internally which reflects usual practice.
Ms Asghar pointed out that Mr Gething took advice from the permanent secretary to ensure he was acting within the code when sacking Hannah Blythyn over leak claims she denies.
Ms Asghar said the ministerial code gave no role to the permanent secretary and other officials for investigating breaches before it was changed in 2021.
Pressed about potential conflicts of interest, Dr Goodall reiterated that civil servants are not involved in enforcing the code.
Transparency International and the Institute for Government recommended appointing a standing external adviser, with Dr Foster calling for own-initiative investigations.
Quizzed about the use of informal messaging by ministers, Dr Goodall said all government business should be “translated” to be part of the official record.
Crime
Milford Haven dealer jailed after police chase crash

A COCAINE dealer from Milford Haven has been locked up after he and an accomplice crashed during a high-speed police chase with thousands of pounds’ worth of drugs in their car.
Dylan Brown, aged 20, was sentenced to 18 months in detention after he admitted being involved in the supply of cocaine and cannabis.
He had been a passenger in a Mercedes driven by Harrison Billing, which failed to stop for police at around 10:50pm on December 27 in Milford Haven.
Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton told the court that Billing sped through a junction at high speed and attempted to turn from Hamilton Terrace onto Francis Street. However, he lost control of the vehicle, crashing into the side of a Grade II listed building where a family with three young children were inside.
The impact caused over £6,000 of damage to the property’s brickwork and wrought iron railings.
Both men ran from the vehicle but were arrested shortly afterwards.
Officers searched the car and found approximately 70 grams of high-purity cocaine, estimated to be worth over £4,000, as well as four mobile phones and £925.31 in cash.
Analysis of one of the phones, which belonged to Brown, revealed messages showing he was actively involved in dealing both cocaine and cannabis. These included enquiries from customers such as “You active?” and “What’s your prices?”, and messages from Billing reprimanding him, including one that read: “You need to be serious about this s*** because you’re losing me money.”
Brown, of Chestnut Way, Milford Haven, admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, and possession of criminal property. He told the court he was acting under the direction of Billing.
Billing has also pleaded guilty to similar charges but will be sentenced at a later date due to separate offences.
In mitigation, defence solicitor Jon Tarrant said Brown had shown immaturity and had not reoffended since the incident, expressing a desire to turn away from criminal activity.
Judge Geraint Walters noted that Brown had no previous convictions for drug offences and described him as “not a typical dealer type.” He referred to messages from Billing that labelled Brown as “dopey” and complained he was costing him money.
A Proceeds of Crime hearing will follow once Billing has been sentenced.
Education
Something for everyone at the Torch Summer School

WITH the summer holidays on the horizon, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is once again preparing to open its doors for a season of creativity, performance and fun.
Whether you’re planning an exotic getaway or opting for a staycation closer to home, the Torch’s popular Summer Schools promise to fill August with exciting activities and memories to last a lifetime.
Over the years, the Torch Theatre has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-quality summer programmes for children and young people. Now, with the addition of an adult summer school, the Torch is proud to offer something for everyone aged seven and over.
“Come and join our fun-packed creative sessions, which include performing in our studio theatre for family and friends,” said Tim Howe, Senior Manager for Youth and Community at the Torch. “We’ve got opportunities for adults and children to get inspired and express themselves artistically. With storytelling adventures, plays produced in a week, and workshops on writing, directing and performance, we know there’s something for everyone.”
Mr Howe added: “Led by professionals with international experience and top drama school training, our summer schools are open to all. There’s no audition, and no previous experience is needed. We’re committed to inclusivity and will make reasonable adjustments so that everyone can enjoy a fulfilling experience.”
The Torch Summer Schools 2025:
Dramatic Detectives
For Year 3 to Year 6 (ages 7–11)
A series of mysterious crimes has rocked the land of make-believe. But what happened, who’s responsible, and can it be stopped in time? Through creative play and storytelling, children will work together to crack the case.
Sessions run daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Monday 4 to Friday 8 August.
Playmakers
For Year 7 to Year 13 (ages 11–18)
Take on the exciting challenge of learning and performing a contemporary play in just one week. Participants will get involved in every aspect of the production – from casting and costumes to props and music.
Sessions run from 10:00am to 4:00pm, Monday 11 to Friday 15 August.
Show Off!
Ages 18+
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, the adult summer school offers a supportive environment to explore writing, performance and direction. The programme concludes with a showcase performance in the studio theatre.
Evening sessions run from 6:30pm to 9:00pm on Thursdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, with a final performance on Saturday 30 August.
Tim concluded: “Our Summer Schools are always incredibly popular, so early booking is recommended. You can find more information and book your place at www.torchtheatre.co.uk or call our friendly Box Office team on 01646 695267.”
What are you waiting for? Try something new this summer – and make the Torch Theatre part of your August adventure.
Business
The Range to open Haverfordwest store this week

New home and garden retailer takes over former Homebase site
A MAJOR new retail store is set to open in Haverfordwest this week, bringing a fresh option for shoppers and garden enthusiasts alike.
The Range, a popular UK home, leisure, and garden chain, will officially open its new store at Springfield Retail Park on Fishguard Road on Friday (Apr 25). The store has taken over the former Homebase unit, which closed its doors in March last year after a clearance sale emptied its shelves.
The Pembrokeshire store is one of more than 50 former Homebase locations being transformed by The Range’s parent company, CDS (Superstores International), as part of a national expansion. CDS acquired around 70 sites across the UK and Ireland, aiming to safeguard approximately 1,600 jobs following Homebase’s financial collapse.
Customers in Haverfordwest can expect a wide selection of products across homeware, DIY, and seasonal gardening, with the store also boasting a new Homebase-branded garden centre.
The Range has confirmed that the new Haverfordwest branch will be a dog-friendly store, with special offers on opening day including free goody bags for the first 50 customers through the door – and even treats for the first five dogs to visit.
“We’re excited to welcome shoppers to our newest store,” said a spokesperson for The Range. “Come and explore a wide range of products, exclusive offers, and the brand-new Homebase Garden Centre.”
Although social media posts suggest an official opening time of 9:00am on Friday, the store is expected to open its doors slightly earlier at 8:30am. Opening hours for the weekend are listed as 8:30am to 8:00pm on both Friday and Saturday, and 1:30pm to 4:30pm on Sunday (Apr 27).
Regular hours have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be similar to The Range’s Carmarthen store, which opens from 8:00am to 8:00pm Monday to Saturday, and 10:30am to 4:30pm on Sundays.
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